Paul Bibby
Four teenagers have been arrested over a suspicious fire in a vacant building at Casino yesterday.
Police report that shortly after 4pm on Monday emergency services were called to a property on Hare Street, Casino following reports a vacant building was alight.
Fire and Rescue NSW and Rural Fire Service crews extinguished the blaze a short time later, preventing the fire from spreading to a neighbouring saw mill and timber storage facility, but the building was completely destroyed.
Officers from Richmond Police District launched an investigation into the cause of the fire and subsequently arrested two boys, aged 12 and 13.
A short time later, a 14-year-old boy was arrested at a nearby skate park and taken to Casino Police Station, while another 14-year-old boy also attended Casino Police Station where he was arrested.
All four teenage boys will be dealt with under the Young Offenders Act.
Richmond Police District Duty Officer, Inspector Chad Deegenaars said asked the community to be vigilant in reporting any suspicious behaviour to try and prevent these crimes.
‘As we approach the bushfire danger period, one spark can spread – potentially putting lives at risk,’ Inspector Deegenaars said.
‘We work alongside all other emergency services in responding to these blazes, but we have to work together to try and prevent these fires from occurring in the first place.’
‘If you see something, say something – you can report anything in strict confidence by calling Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.’
